HMS Lancaster recognised

HMS Lancaster might be on operations in the Arabian Gulf but that hasn't stopped their football team from breaking down barriers and hosting a series of on-shore coaching sessions for local children.

And it’s that commitment to grassroots football that has seen HMS Lancaster FC presented with an FA Charter Standard award.

The award, which recognises good football practice at grassroots level, was recently presented on the ship’s deck by Commanding Officer Rory Bryan to LPT Daz Hoare.

HMS Lancaster FC completed their application for the award before leaving the UK last November and Cmdr Bryan commented: “We’re delighted that HMS Lancaster has been recognised in this way and can be a part of the football family.”

Steve Johnson from the Royal Navy FA added: “HMS Lancaster is a Type 23 Frigate and has become the fourth Navy ship to win this award.

“Both The FA and the Royal Navy FA support the ship’s football programme with kit and equipment that’s given to local children during the football coaching sessions.”

The Royal Navy now has eleven football teams in total with The FA Charter Standard Award.